Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

4-9-2026

Faculty Mentor

Joy Crawford

Abstract

Housing insecurity and homelessness continue to increase in the United States, with over 771,480 individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night in 2024—an approximate 18% increase from 2023 (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2024). Individuals facing homelessness often experience complex physical, mental, and emotional health challenges that can hinder successful community reintegration. The capstone site was a nonprofit organization that provides transitional housing through a relationship-centered model emphasizing individualized support and resource accessibility to those experiencing homelessness. The purpose of this project was to develop a comprehensive toolkit to educate residents on holistic wellness, provide practical strategies for maintaining well-being during challenging times, and to provide sustainable resources that could be integrated into daily routines and maintained by staff beyond the project period. The primary aim of this project was to enhance participants’ understanding of holistic wellness with the goal of reducing the risk of homelessness after transitioning to independent living. This project involved the development and implementation of a structured, multi-session wellness program covering topics such as gratitude, understanding holistic wellness, and self-care practices. Educational materials, including a comprehensive wellness toolkit and facilitator guides, were created for both residents and staff. Staff members received individualized training to support ongoing program implementation and sustainability. Data were collected through surveys administered to both residents and staff following participation in the program. Results revealed increased awareness and understanding of holistic wellness concepts among residents and positive feedback regarding the relevance and applicability of the program. Staff reported increased confidence in facilitating wellness-focused discussions and utilizing the toolkit as a resource in their interactions with residents. This capstone project highlights the importance of integrating holistic wellness programming within transitional housing settings. By providing sustainable and replicable resources, this project supports continued program implementation and contributes to improved health outcomes and successful community reintegration for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Download

Share

COinS